Tuesday, August 18, 2015

So far...

I haven't blogged since June, true. I have been painting, though. My current series, focusing on coping, mental/emotional conditions and fungus/growth is coming along. For more background on the theme, please read past post here.

One of the figures I most wanted to paint was that of a mother. Perhaps this is because, as a woman, a lot of life is focused on becoming (or not becoming) one's mother, and then becoming (or not becoming) a mother to brand new humans. One experiences precautions to not become a mom and routines to encourage the seed to sprout. Whether one has children or not, the majority of a woman's life is dedicated to "motherhood."

Early on in my art sponge-iness, I came across this sketch by Pablo Picasso:

I was moved. As a teenager. Completely and utterly touched by the body language in this mere sketch.

In regards to my newest piece in this unnamed underwater women series, I wanted to represent mothers. As an honor, yes, but also to ask why. As everyone has very valid opinions on this, I wanted to examine my thoughts on motherhood. It can, to me, be a way to deal with the harshness of this life; a way to deal with the madness in our heads. It's also a very biological thing that happens without planning (but not without action). I've experienced being lost in the eyes of a perfect, innocent, amazing, trusting child that you love with all your heart. You want to give them absolutely everything and more. Even if that may mean sabotaging your life as you know it.

So, in this universe of invasive growth, lichen and fungus, this one takes the place of a child. Where some figures are fighting, trying to escape, this one is nourishing it, calmly cherishing the company of it.

Perhaps this symbolizes resignation, perhaps it's hope of something good coming. It may simply be nature taking it's course. This one, more than others has been emotionally challenging to create. I am hoping, also, that it's emotionally challenging to experience as a viewer. Maybe more so when the intended context is understood.

Detail

And so I'm almost done with another piece. I have a few pieces of the background to touch-up, but that's that. I've been building and preparing 4 new canvases, so there's much more to come soon.

The series thus far is shaping up:

Recent soundtrack:
The Beatles -- all of it. Going back to my childhood :)
alt-J -- This is All Yours
Tame Impala -- Currents
D'Angelo and the Vanguard -- Black Messiah
Hozier (yes, still obsessed)